Looking for a cake that whisks you away to a tropical paradise with each bite? Our Tropical Banana Delight Cake combines the sweet richness of ripe bananas with the creamy goodness of coconut milk and shredded coconut, making it a perfect treat for any occasion.
The star of our show, ripe bananas, brings natural sweetness and moisture to the cake. They help achieve that soft, tender crumb we all adore. Coconut milk adds a creamy richness, enhancing the tropical vibe. Make sure to use the canned version for the best texture. Butter and sugar are creamed together to create a light and airy base, essential for a fluffy cake. The eggs act as a binder and provide structure, while vanilla extract adds a hint of warmth and depth. Our leavening agents, baking powder and baking soda, ensure the cake rises beautifully. A pinch of salt balances the sweetness, and a dash of cinnamon offers a subtle spicy note. Finally, shredded coconut provides texture and amplifies the coconut flavor.
This cake pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a more decadent twist, drizzle some caramel sauce over the top. It’s also lovely with a cup of tropical fruit tea, enhancing the exotic flavors.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan to ensure the cake doesn’t stick. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar. You’ll want to use an electric mixer for this to achieve a light and fluffy texture, about 3-5 minutes of mixing should do the trick.
Next, add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. This helps to fully incorporate the eggs into the mixture. Now, add the mashed bananas, coconut milk, and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well combined, and enjoy the delightful aroma.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents and spices. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, so be gentle.
Gently fold in the shredded coconut with a spatula. Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly. Pop it into the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. It’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before serving. This step ensures the cake sets properly and doesn’t crumble when you cut into it.